Cannabis nursing, also known as cannabis therapeutics, is an emerging nurse specialty that has grown alongside legislative changes and shifting public opinion regarding medical marijuana. Cannabis nurses primarily focus on educating patients and work in various settings, from wellness clinics to dispensaries. Their scope of practice is defined by the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) and aligns with evidence-based practice.
Two major nursing associations, the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) and the Cannabis Nurse Network (CNN), support this growing specialty. Let’s explore trends in cannabis therapy, the role of nursing in this field, and the potential of cannabis nursing as a career path.
Who Is a Cannabis Nurse?
The American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) defines the scope and standards of cannabis nursing, which involves not only supporting and educating patients but also promoting wellness and healing through compassionate care that addresses patients’ needs. Cannabis nurses must possess knowledge and expertise beyond the standard registered nurse competencies.
This includes a deep understanding of the endocannabinoid system, cannabis therapeutics, cannabinoids, terpenoids, cannabis laboratory testing requirements, potential medication interactions, advocacy, ethics, and relevant laws.
Cannabis nurses also serve as advocates, coaches, and navigators, guiding patients through the vast landscape of cannabis information and misinformation. They strive to help patients achieve optimal homeostasis by supporting the endocannabinoid system. To maintain a professional and caring presence with patients, cannabis nurses must also prioritize self-care.
NCSBN Guidelines for Cannabis Nursing
The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) has established the Six Principles of Essential Knowledge, which outline the necessary information and skills nurses must possess when working with cannabis therapeutics:
- Comprehensive and current understanding of cannabis laws: Nurses must stay well-informed about the most recent cannabis legislation in the United States to ensure they practice within legal boundaries.
- Familiarity with local medical cannabis programs: Nurses should have a solid grasp of the medical cannabis programs available within their jurisdiction to guide better and support their patients.
- Thorough knowledge of the endocannabinoid system: A deep understanding of the endocannabinoid system is crucial for nurses to comprehend how cannabis interacts with the human body and its potential therapeutic effects.
- Expertise in cannabis pharmacology and research: Nurses must stay up-to-date with the latest research on cannabis treatments and have a strong foundation in cannabis pharmacology to make informed decisions and provide accurate information to patients.
- Awareness of safety considerations: Nurses should be well-versed in the potential risks and safety concerns associated with cannabis use to ensure patient well-being and minimize adverse effects.
- Unbiased approach to patient treatment choices: Nurses must maintain an open-minded and non-judgmental attitude regarding patients’ treatment decisions, respecting their autonomy and supporting them without prejudice.
What Does a Cannabis Nurse Do?
A cannabis nurse plays a vital role in educating, guiding, and supporting patients who use medical marijuana for various health conditions. Some of their key responsibilities include:
- Patient education: Cannabis nurses provide comprehensive information about the potential benefits, risks, and proper use of medical marijuana, helping patients make informed decisions about their treatment options.
- Dosage and administration guidance: They assist patients in determining the appropriate dosage, strain, and method of administration based on their individual needs and medical history.
- Monitoring and assessment: Cannabis nurses regularly monitor patients’ responses to treatment, assess the effectiveness of the medication, and watch for any potential side effects or adverse reactions.
- Collaboration with healthcare providers: They work closely with physicians, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure a coordinated and comprehensive approach to patient care.
- Advocacy and support: Cannabis nurses act as advocates for their patients, helping them navigate the legal and social complexities surrounding medical marijuana use and providing emotional support throughout the treatment process.
- Staying current with research: They keep abreast of the latest research, developments, and best practices in cannabis therapeutics to provide their patients with the most up-to-date and evidence-based care.
- Maintaining professional standards: Cannabis nurses adhere to the scope and standards of practice set forth by professional organizations like the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) to ensure the highest quality of care and ethical conduct.
What are the Benefits of Being a Cannabis Nurse?
- High demand and job security: With the increasing legalization of medical marijuana and the ongoing nursing shortage in the USA, cannabis nurses are expected to be in high demand for the foreseeable future, ensuring excellent job prospects and security.
- Competitive compensation: As demand for cannabis nurses grows, so does the potential for attractive salaries, which are likely to increase further in the coming years.
- Opportunity to be part of a medical revolution: Cannabis nurses have the chance to participate in the exciting and rapidly evolving field of medical marijuana as more research unveils the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids like THC, CBD, CBG, and CBN in treating various medical conditions.
- Fulfilling work in helping patients: Nurses passionate about assisting others can find great satisfaction in working with patients who benefit from medical cannabis, as it is increasingly recognized as a breakthrough treatment for numerous ailments, including chronic pain, multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, and migraines.
- Engaging in a fascinating and growing industry: Whether you are a supporter, user, or simply curious about the applications and future of medical cannabis, being a cannabis nurse allows you to be at the forefront of this captivating and expanding industry.
How to Become a Cannabis Nurse
To become a cannabis nurse, you’ll need to follow these steps:
- Obtain a nursing degree: Earn an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from an accredited nursing program.
- Pass the NCLEX-RN exam: After completing your nursing degree, you must pass the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) to obtain your nursing license.
- Gain experience: Work as a registered nurse to gain clinical experience and develop nursing skills.
- Pursue specialized education in cannabis therapeutics: Enroll in courses, workshops, or certificate programs focused on cannabis nursing offered by organizations such as the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) or educational institutions.
- Stay current with research and best practices: Continuously educate yourself about the latest research findings, legal developments, and best practices in cannabis therapeutics to provide the most up-to-date care to your patients.
- Consider cannabis nurse certification: Although not currently required, earning a certificate in cannabis nursing or science can demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the field.
- Network and engage with the cannabis nursing community: Join professional organizations like the ACNA or the Cannabis Nurse Network to access resources, attend conferences, and connect with other cannabis nurses.
- Seek job opportunities: Look for cannabis nursing positions in dispensaries, consulting practices, hospitals, clinics, research institutions, or educational settings that align with your career goals and interests.
Remember that the field of cannabis nursing is still evolving, and requirements may vary by state or employer. Staying informed about your area’s latest developments and regulations is essential for success in this growing specialty.
Where do Cannabis Nurses Work?
Cannabis nurses can work in various healthcare settings, providing direct patient care, conducting research, or offering clinical expertise in collaboration with product manufacturing companies.
In dispensaries, cannabis nurses assist patients by addressing unwanted or unintended consequences of cannabis products, such as side effects or concerns about habit formation. They help patients find the right cannabis strain and provide education on proper medication administration and dosing.
Cannabis nurses in consulting practices focus on educating patients about cannabis products, promoting safe cannabis use, and advising on the therapeutic effects of cannabis. They may also collaborate with product manufacturers in product development.
In hospitals or clinics, cannabis nurses inform patients about cannabis and its medical applications, provide support, and advocate for patients taking medical cannabis. They may also recruit patients for clinical trials and measure outcomes.
Regardless of the specific setting, cannabis nurses play a crucial role in educating and supporting patients, promoting safe and effective use of medical cannabis, and contributing to the growing body of knowledge in this emerging field.
Is there a certification for cannabis nurses?
Currently, there is no nationally recognized certification specifically for cannabis nurses. However, the ACNA offers a core curriculum for cannabis nursing, which provides a foundation for nurses interested in specializing in this field. Some universities and private organizations also offer certificate programs in cannabis science and therapeutics.
Cannabis Nursing Community
The cannabis nursing community is a growing network of healthcare professionals who are dedicated to advancing the field of cannabis therapeutics and supporting patients who use medical marijuana. Engaging with this community can provide numerous benefits for aspiring and practicing cannabis nurses.
Two prominent organizations in the cannabis nursing community are the American Cannabis Nurses Association (ACNA) and the Cannabis Nurse Network (CNN). These organizations offer a platform for nurses to connect, share knowledge, and access valuable resources.
The ACNA and CNN provide educational resources, including webinars, conferences, and workshops, to help nurses stay current with the latest research, best practices, and legal developments in cannabis therapeutics. Participating in these events can enhance your knowledge and skills while providing opportunities to network with other cannabis nurses.
Engaging with the cannabis nursing community allows you to connect with colleagues who share your interests and face similar challenges. These connections can lead to valuable friendships, mentorship opportunities, and professional collaborations.
As a member of the cannabis nursing community, you can contribute to the field’s growth and advancement by advocating for patient rights, participating in research, and taking on leadership roles within professional organizations.
Networking within the cannabis nursing community can open doors to new career opportunities, such as consulting, education, or research positions. Staying active and engaged in the community can help you stay informed about job openings and industry trends.
To get involved in the cannabis nursing community, consider joining the ACNA or CNN, attending conferences and workshops, participating in online forums and discussions, and connecting with other cannabis nurses through social media platforms like LinkedIn. By actively engaging with this community, you can contribute to the advancement of cannabis therapeutics while enhancing your own professional growth and career satisfaction.
Final Thoughts on How to Become a Dispensary Nurse
As the field of cannabis nursing continues to evolve, it’s crucial for nurses to stay informed about the latest developments in medical cannabis use, including frequently asked questions from patients and updates to the cannabis nurse’s scope of practice. With the growing acceptance and use of medical cannabis to treat various conditions, the demand for knowledgeable cannabis nurses is likely to increase, offering exciting career pathways for cannabis nurses interested in this specialty nursing practice.
